Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
Many people have slipped and fallen at some point in their lives. In many instances, these accidents are minor and do not result in serious injuries. Other times, though, slip and falls have catastrophic results for accident victims. They can cause traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and other severe harm. Injured individuals often think that slip and fall accidents are their own fault, but that is often not true. Below, our Daniel Island premises liability lawyer explains the most common causes of these accidents and how to hold negligent parties liable.
Wet and Uneven Surfaces
By far the most common cause of slip and fall accidents are wet and uneven walking surfaces. Wet and uneven walking surfaces are responsible for over half of all slip and fall accidents in the United States. There are many different types of wet and uneven surfaces that cause slip and falls, including:
- Loose mats
- Loose floorboards
- Freshly mopped or waxed floors
- Worn carpeting
- Defective sidewalks
- Parking lot potholes
- Cluttered floors
- Poorly constructed staircases
- Moisture collection
The dangerous conditions above can occur in commercial, domestic, industrial, and public places.
Inadequate Training
Slip and falls in the construction industry are some of the most serious types of accidents. These typically happen due to a lack of training. Employees and employers both must receive proper training to prevent a serious slip and fall from happening on the job. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has created guidelines to prevent trips, slips, and falls.
Loose Cords and Wires
Loose cords and wires are another very common cause of slip and fall accidents. As people walk, their feet become caught on these cords and wires, causing them to trip and fall. Cords and wires should always be secured to the floor so they do not pose a tripping hazard.
Nursing Home Negligence
It is a sad fact, but many slip and falls are a result of nursing home neglect. People who are admitted into these facilities are very vulnerable and need assistance moving around. Nursing home staff members may not provide the necessary supervision, or they may mishandle seniors as they are moving them from one place to another.
Broken Handrails
Handrails are fixed to walls and posts to provide support for people as they walk on staircases and pavement. Many slip and falls are caused by broken or missing handrails. Handrails are also very important in the bathroom, where walking surfaces are naturally wet and slippery.
Insufficient Lighting
Insufficient lighting systems in buildings and along walkways are a very common cause of slip and fall accidents. When walkways are not properly lit, people may not see hazards or uneven walking surfaces and end up falling.
Our Premises Liability Lawyer in Daniel Island Can Help After an Injury
If you slipped and fell due to negligent conditions on a premises, you may be able to hold the property owner liable. At Fuller Law Firm, our Daniel Island premises liability lawyer can help you do it so you obtain the maximum settlement that is rightfully yours. Call us now at 843-277-0013 or chat with us online to request a consultation and to get the legal help you need.
Source:
law.cornell.edu/wex/negligence
